Immunoassay Analyzer Electrochemical Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current point-of-care testing (POCT) systems for detecting analytes in body fluids face limitations in sensitivity, dynamic range, and selectivity, particularly in complex media like blood, due to reliance on optical methods which are costly and prone to interference.
Innovation Solution
An immunoassay analyzer combining a transport matrix with immobilized capture reagents and amperometric/potentiometric sensor elements, allowing for electrical detection of analytes without expensive optical components, enabling rapid, quantitative analysis over a wide concentration range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical methods are used for analyte detection in POCT systems, then sensitivity and dynamic range can be improved, but device cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical detection systems with electrochemical sensor systems. Instead of using optical components (light sources, detectors, lenses) to detect analytes, the invention employs amperometric or potentiometric sensors that convert chemical reactions into electrical signals. This substitution eliminates complex optical hardware while maintaining or improving detection sensitivity through electrochemical signal transduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes the optical readout components from the POCT system. By eliminating the optical system entirely and relying solely on electrochemical sensing with simple electrical connections, the device complexity is reduced while the core analytical function is preserved through alternative physical principles.
2Measurement precision
If optical readout systems are implemented to improve assay sensitivity, then quantitative results can be obtained, but the cost of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive electrochemical sensors that can be manufactured at low cost using standard semiconductor fabrication techniques. These sensors replace expensive optical components with simple electrode structures that require minimal materials and can be produced in high volumes, significantly reducing the overall system cost while maintaining analytical performance.
Solution Approach 2:
By substituting expensive optical detection hardware with inexpensive electrochemical sensors, the invention achieves the same analytical sensitivity at a fraction of the cost. The electrochemical readout system requires only basic electrical connections and signal processing, eliminating the need for costly optical benches, light sources, and detectors.
3Productivity
If immunochromatographic assays are used for rapid POCT, then ease of use and speed are improved, but sensitivity and selectivity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the rapid immunochromatographic assay format with electrochemical detection technology. The immunochromatographic component provides rapid separation and concentration of analytes, while the integrated electrochemical sensors provide sensitive quantitative detection. This combination maintains the speed and ease of use of lateral flow assays while achieving the sensitivity and selectivity previously only available in complex optical systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides enhanced sensitivity and dynamic range for analyte detection in small sample volumes, reducing costs and complexity while minimizing interference from the sample medium.
Implementation Method 1
They are mostly based on immunoassays using antigen-antibody interactions to locally enhance the concentration of the analyte. The introduction of a label causes a local chromatographic change, indicating the presence of the analyte. A microporous membrane (cellulose, paper, silk, polymer, etc.) is used for immobilizing a capture reagent
Implementation Method 2
They are mostly based on immunoassays using antigen-antibody interactions to locally enhance the concentration of the analyte
Implementation Method 3
at least one amperometric and/or potentiometric sensor element comprising at least one working electrode and at least one reference electrode
Implementation Method 4
at least one amperometric and/or potentiometric sensor element comprising at least one working electrode and at least one reference electrode
Data Source
AI summary
A method for detecting at least one analyte in a liquid sample, the method comprising steps of a) binding the at least one analyte in the liquid sample with a capture reagent; b) binding a conjugate to the at least one analyte or the capture reagent; c) providing a substrate and converting the5 substrate into a product via a reaction with the conjugate, wherein the product is provided in a test area; and d) detecting an electric potential difference and/or a change in an electric current between at least one working electrode in the test area and at least one reference electrode in a reference area which is different from the test area.